There are approximately 1,000 cases of this wine, which blends 56% Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon with 44% Barossa Shiraz into a stunning combination of cassis and blackberries. Lifted bits of flowers on the nose resemble fine teas and dried herbs, adding the requisite complexity, while the mouthfeel artfully balances the weight of Shiraz with the structure of…
— J.C.
(11/1/2007)
A lifted hint of mint on the nose comes from the Cabernet, while raspberry and spice come from the Shiraz. Both contribute to the full, complete mouthfeel and lush, creamy texture. The long finish displays some smoky barrel notes, but overall the wood here is well integrated. Should be a classic when it’s released in 2008. Drink 2010–2020 or beyond.
— J.C.
(11/1/2007)
This blend (73% Cab, 20% Shiraz, 7% Merlot) receives “200 percent” new oak, spending a total of 24 months in cask. The oak shows, imparting deliciously creamy vanilla aromas and flavors; but there’s plenty of depth and substance to the fruit as well. Cassis, tobacco and richly earthy notes round out the wine, finishing with firm tannins. Drink 2005–2015.
— W.E.
(10/1/2003)
A blend of 69% Cabernet and 31% Shiraz, Yalumba’s 2004 The Reserve is still firm and dusty on the finish, suggesting at least another 2–3 years of cellaring are warranted. Cassis, caramel, earth and vanilla notes are all nicely integrated into a cohesive whole, with the result being a dark, chocolaty wine that’s savory as much as it is fruity.
— J.C.
(5/1/2012)
Nicely balanced dark berry herb and tobacco bouquet opens this pleasing, supple red. Full and even in the mouth, it offers a lot of black cherry cassis and toasty oak flavors, good texture and enough structure to be considered serious. This is a delicious Cabernet-Shiraz blend, already drinkable and capable of holding for the next two to four years, maybe longer.
— M.M.
(1/1/2004)
This blend of 57% Cabernet, 27% Shiraz and 16% Merlot is a barrel selection, named for the family matriarch. It’s amply oaked, roaring forth with smoke, toast and vanilla, but there’s also a tight core of mixed berry fruit and a long finish. Give it 2–3 years.
— J.C.
(11/1/2007)
A lush blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon and 38% Shiraz, this is full bodied and a bit jammy at this stage, full of primary blueberry and blackberry fruit framed with cedary oak. The potent finish lingers, suggesting the potential to cellar through 2020 if you have the patience to wait for a more complex, integrated wine. If not, just pop and pour for the upfront fruit.
— J.C.
(11/1/2011)